Nestled in the scenic hills of Jalhay, the Gileppe Dam is both an engineering masterpiece and a place of natural beauty. Built between 1867 and 1875, it ranks among the oldest dams in Europe, originally designed to supply water to the textile city of Verviers. Decades later, from 1967 to 1971, the structure was raised to increase its capacity to a remarkable 25 million cubic meters. History and Function The Gileppe Dam is fed by the Gileppe, Louba, and Soor rivers, ensuring a steady water supply and generating electricity for the surrounding region. When first constructed, it was considered a technological wonder, symbolizing industrial progress in Belgium. Panoramic Tower and Exhibition Visitors can explore the dam’s panoramic tower, which stands 77 meters above the water. Inside, an exhibition chronicles the history of the dam, from its 19th-century origins to its modern role. At the tower’s summit, a restaurant offers sweeping views over the reservoir and surrounding forests, a...
